Does the 2016 Chevy Cruze have transmission problems?
The short answer is that some 2016 Cruze models with the automatic transmission have been reported to experience transmission-related issues, such as harsh shifting or shuddering. However, not all cars are affected, and many owners report normal performance. This article explains what is known, what symptoms to watch for, and how to pursue remedies.
Chevrolet’s 2016 Cruze, a compact sedan featuring a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission depending on the trim, has been the subject of consumer complaints and regulatory actions over the years. In this piece, we review the nature of reported problems, the kinds of remedies that have been offered, and practical steps owners can take if they suspect a transmission issue.
What types of problems have been reported?
Below is a concise summary of common transmission-related symptoms reported by owners and tracked by regulators. This list helps readers gauge whether their vehicle’s behavior might align with known issues.
- Harsh or delayed upshifts and downshifts, especially around city speeds or when the engine/turbos are under load
- Shuddering or jerking at highway speeds during acceleration or cruising
- Transmission slipping or failing to move out of a gear, sometimes triggering warning lights
- A sudden or gradual loss of power related to the transmission system
- Unusual noises appearing from the transmission area during operation
The incidence of these symptoms is not uniform across all 2016 Cruze vehicles. They have been reported more frequently by some owners and in certain production runs, and other vehicles may show no symptoms at all. Maintenance history, driving conditions, and adherence to recommended service schedules can influence outcomes.
What has been done about these issues?
Automakers and regulators have taken several steps to address transmission concerns in the Cruze and similar GM models. The following points describe the main categories of actions and remedies that have been documented publicly.
- General Motors issued service bulletins addressing automatic transmission behavior, including software calibrations to improve shift quality and reduce harshness.
- Some affected vehicles were included in recalls or service campaigns; owners should verify recall status using their VIN and GM’s official recall tools.
- In certain cases, software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) were performed to optimize shifting and torque conversion behavior.
- When necessary, dealerships offered repairs under warranty, including potential transmission replacement or rebuilds, depending on the vehicle’s age, mileage, and warranty coverage.
- The standard GM powertrain warranty (in the U.S.) generally covers major components for a defined period/mileage; owners should confirm current terms with their dealer or GM’s customer service.
Owners should note that remedies vary by vehicle, by market, and by the specific cause of the symptom. Always consult a certified dealership for an accurate diagnosis and to confirm what coverage may apply to your car.
What to do if you own a 2016 Cruze
If you own a 2016 Cruze and suspect a transmission problem or want to be proactive, consider the following steps to protect yourself and your investment.
- Check for open recalls or service campaigns on GM’s recall website using your VIN, and contact a Chevrolet dealer if anything appears.
- Schedule a diagnostic appointment with a GM-certified technician to determine the cause of any shifting or performance issues.
- Ask about software updates for the transmission control module and any reprogramming that may improve shifting behavior.
- Document symptoms with dates, mileage, and driving conditions; keep maintenance records in case of future warranty or goodwill discussions.
- If the issue persists, discuss warranty coverage, potential extensions, or repair options such as transmission replacement or rebuild with the service advisor.
Proactive diagnostics and timely service can help mitigate potential damage and associated costs, and working with an authorized GM dealer ensures access to the latest software and recognized repair procedures.
Alternative considerations and context
Transmission reliability can vary widely across model years and configurations. While the 2016 Cruze has had reports of transmission-related problems, many owners experience solid performance, especially with regular maintenance and timely software updates. When evaluating a used 2016 Cruze, consider obtaining a vehicle history report, scheduling a pre-purchase inspection, and asking the seller for service records related to the transmission and any recent updates.
Summary
In summary, some 2016 Chevy Cruzes with automatic transmissions have shown transmission-related issues such as harsh shifting, shuddering, or occasional slipping. These problems are not universal, and GM has implemented software updates and service actions in response. If you own a 2016 Cruze or are considering one, verify recall status, discuss potential software updates with a dealer, and maintain thorough service records to stay on top of any transmission-related concerns.
